Friends of Socialist China, Author at Friends of Socialist China

A familiar slander: Counterpunch and the recycling of anti-China talking points

In a recent article for Counterpunch, Joshua Frank accuses China of “green economic imperialism” in Africa and Latin America – alleging that Chinese investment in critical minerals and renewable supply chains amounts to a new form of colonial plunder. The piece appeared just days after French President Emmanuel Macron, at the Africa Forward Summit in Nairobi, condemned China for operating with a “predatory logic” across the continent.

In the following article, our co-editor Carlos Martinez responds. He shows that Frank’s case rests on a series of substantive misrepresentations – about China’s energy transition, its mining operations, its lending practices, and the meaning of imperialism itself. Whatever Frank’s intentions, the function of his piece is to manufacture left-wing consent for the US-led New Cold War on China.

In a recent article for Counterpunch, Joshua Frank revives a now-familiar accusation: that China is engaged in “green economic imperialism” in the Global South, plundering critical minerals to fuel its renewable-energy industries while propping up dependent regimes through resource-backed loans. Chinese engagement with the Global South, Frank concludes, is “economic imperialism (which is very much rooted in colonial policies)”.

This is a remarkably timely reproduction of the argument made by French President Emmanuel Macron at the Africa Forward Summit in Nairobi the previous week. Macron accused China of operating with a “predatory logic” across Africa and of “creating dependencies” by insisting that critical mineral processing takes place on Chinese soil.

That should give pause. As observed on this website, Macron made his Nairobi remarks at a summit explicitly designed to “rebuild French influence in Africa” after France’s humiliating expulsion from Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger. He spoke as the head of a former colonial power controlling a currency, the CFA franc, which is used to extract foreign-exchange reserves from 14 African states into a French Treasury account. When the head of an actually-existing neocolonial entity denounces Chinese “predatory logic”, it’s not a bad idea for leftists to do their due diligence.

The coal canard

Frank opens by noting that China is “still building coal-fired power plants at a faster pace than any other country” and that “air pollution in China kills 2 million a year”. Both claims are substantively misleading.

China turns the tables: the slow collapse of US sanctions power

US sanctions have long been a primary weapon of imperial coercion – designed, in Henry Kissinger’s chilling phrase, to “make the economy scream” until a target country submits. For decades, Cuba, Venezuela, Iran, the DPRK, Zimbabwe, Nicaragua and many others have lived under their crushing weight. Increasingly, however, this weapon is losing its edge.

In early May, Washington added five Chinese oil refineries to its Specially Designated Nationals list, accusing them of buying Iranian petroleum in defiance of US sanctions. China’s Ministry of Commerce responded by invoking the country’s 2021 Blocking Rules for the first time, declaring the sanctions an “improper extraterritorial application” of US law and ordering all Chinese entities to ignore them. Any bank or supplier that stops doing business with the five firms in compliance with US demands can now be sued for damages in Chinese courts.

In the following article, first published in the Morning Star, our co-editor Carlos Martinez situates this development in the wider context of Washington’s weaponisation of sanctions – and the construction of a legal counter-architecture by Beijing that, together with the parallel resistance of Russia and Iran, is bringing the era of unchallenged US economic coercion to an end.

In early May, the US sanctioned five Chinese oil refineries — four of them small independent operations known as “teapot” refineries — for allegedly purchasing Iranian petroleum in violation of Washington’s unilateral sanctions on Iran.

All five were added to the US Treasury Department’s Specially Designated Nationals (SDN) list, which bars them from accessing the US financial system and penalises any company that does business with them.

China’s Ministry of Commerce conducted an in-depth assessment of this action and concluded that it “constitutes improper extraterritorial application” of US law. It then ordered all Chinese companies, banks and other entities not to recognise, enforce or comply with the sanctions.

This was the first application of China’s 2021 Rules on Counteracting Unjustified Extraterritorial Application of Foreign Legislation and Other Measures, commonly known as the Blocking Rules.

A successful visit to Beijing: is the US ruling class starting to face reality?

In the following article, our co-editor Carlos Martinez assesses Donald Trump’s 13-15 May state visit to China, arguing that the positive mood music between Trump and Xi Jinping reflects a (slowly) growing understanding in US policy circles that a hawkish anti-China strategy simply is not working. The semiconductor war has accelerated Chinese self-sufficiency rather than slowed it; Trump’s 145 percent tariffs collapsed within days of Beijing tightening rare-earth export controls; and the US-Israeli criminal war on Iran has strengthened, rather than weakened, the multipolar trajectory.

The deeper meaning of this summit is that the US ruling class is having to, very reluctantly, start to come to terms with the world as it actually is. It does not “hold the cards”. As Xi put it at the Great Hall of the People, “the world is big enough to accommodate both countries, and one country’s success is an opportunity for the other.” The Chinese have been consistently saying this for years. The difference now is that, as a growing number of US analysts are admitting that they’re right: win-win cooperation between major powers is possible; what isn’t possible is the indefinite extension of unipolar US hegemony.

Donald Trump’s 13-15 May state visit to China has produced a raft of headlines that would have been unthinkable a decade ago. “This time, Trump and Xi meet as equals”, declared The Times. The White House spoke of a “constructive relationship of strategic stability”.

A delegation of CEOs – Nvidia’s Jensen Huang (who joined at the last minute), Tesla’s Elon Musk, Apple’s Tim Cook and more – accompanied the president to Beijing, signalling that the decoupling project has, at least for the moment, run its course. Trump publicly defended the right of half a million Chinese students to attend US universities. He called Xi a “great leader” and said “the relationship is a very strong one”. The Times columnist Gerard Baker, who has spent years cheerleading for the China hawks, conceded that “the unipolar moment was fleeting” and that “there are two true superpowers”.

This is a remarkable shift. Trump has cast himself as a China hawk since at least his 2016 campaign. “We can’t continue to allow China to rape our country”, he infamously told a rally in Indiana. He pledged to label China a currency manipulator on day one, accused Beijing of “stealing our jobs” and made tariffs on Chinese goods a centrepiece of his platform. Once in office, he initiated the trade war, banned Huawei from US 5G networks, expelled Chinese journalists, signed bipartisan legislation funnelling weapons to Taiwan, and oversaw the 2017 National Security Strategy that designated China as a “strategic competitor”.

Working people around the world look for Cold War reset as Xi and Trump meet

As Chinese President Xi Jinping sat down with his US counterpart and guest Donald Trump in Beijing’s Great Hall of the People on May 14, the US publication People’s World published an article issued in the name of its editorial collective, saying that “the eyes of working people around the world are fixed on this two-day summit with both urgency and hope.”

It went on to note that the “relationship between the United States and China has deteriorated badly in recent years. Military posturing in the Asia-Pacific and the signing of new war pacts like the AUKUS nuclear submarine scheme have raised the specter of catastrophic conflict. A ‘new Cold War’ framework—driven by Washington’s bipartisan foreign policy establishment—has pushed the two largest economies on earth toward confrontation rather than cooperation… This summit is an opportunity to step back from the brink and push the reset button.”

According to the US comrades, in his opening remarks addressed to Trump, President Xi posed the right question: “Can the United States and China avoid the ‘Thucydides Trap,’ the historical pattern in which a rising power and an established one blunder into war? That question deserves a serious answer, and it demands more than diplomatic pleasantries. It demands concrete commitments.”

We reprint the article below.

As U.S. President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping sit across from one another at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, the eyes of working people around the world are fixed on this two-day summit with both urgency and hope.

The relationship between the United States and China has deteriorated badly in recent years. Reckless tariff wars have disrupted global supply chains and squeezed workers and consumers in both countries with inflation and layoffs. Military posturing in the Asia-Pacific and the signing of new war pacts like the AUKUS nuclear submarine scheme have raised the specter of catastrophic conflict.

How China prepared for the new global food crisis, caused by the US war on Iran

The US-Israeli war on Iran has triggered a global food and energy crisis that, by some estimates, could push as many as 45 million people into hunger – on top of the hundreds of millions already going hungry around the world. Prices of staple foods are rising sharply, supply chains through the Persian Gulf are disrupted, and the burden, as ever, will fall hardest on the Global South.

In this important essay for Geopolitical Economy Report, Joe Scholten examines how China has prepared for precisely this kind of crisis – and how rational socialist planning has insulated its 1.4 billion people from the kind of shock the world is facing.

The lesson is not new. During the 2022 food crisis triggered by the war in Ukraine, world prices of corn, wheat and soybeans nearly doubled; US grocery prices rose by 11.4 percent that year. China was largely unscathed, thanks to a strategic food reserves system. Today, that system stands at over 700 million metric tons of grain – enough to feed the entire population for a year. Add to this a vast fertilizer reserve, world-leading agricultural drone deployment (over 300,000 units, more than half the global total), AI-enabled pest identification, and $757 billion in water conservation investment under the 14th Five-Year Plan.

As the author puts it: “State planning and the socialist mode of production, in the form of state-owned enterprises and cooperatives under the guidance of a communist party, are capable of addressing fundamental needs.” Where Western pundits once mocked China’s stockpiling as either bureaucratic waste or preparation for aggressive war, the reality is now plain to see: China has anticipated the crisis that US imperialism has manufactured, and stands ready to help cushion its neighbours from the worst of it.

I wrote an article on the topic of food security in China in 2022. The main rationale for that prior essay was that there had been warnings of a global food crisis as the result of the war in Ukraine.

Indeed, prices of staple commodities like corn, wheat, and soybeans nearly doubled in price in the first year of the conflict, and millions were pushed into hunger worldwide.

Young communists from Europe and North America visit China

A delegation of young cadres from communist parties in Europe and North America recently visited China.

On the second day of a two-week trip they met with Jin Xin, Vice-minister of the International Department of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee (IDCPC).

According to the report issued by the IDCPC, Jin elaborated on the scientific connotations and global significance of Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era and stated that the CPC stands ready to enhance youth exchanges with socialist forces worldwide, including communist parties in Europe and the US, deepen mutual learning on party governance and state administration, and jointly explore practical paths for adapting Marxism to local contexts and the times.

Members of the delegation noted that the successful practice of socialism with Chinese characteristics in the new era has greatly inspired progressive forces across the world. As young Marxists, they expressed anticipation of learning from the CPC’s successful experience.

According to Paulius Eidukas, who represented the Communist Party of Norway on the delegation, Jin said that the world is in the process of change and the global winds are blowing in the direction away from capitalism. This is the moment that communist parties in the West should consider carefully, to find out how they can seize the opportunity.

“You, the generation of younger communists, with your admirable courage and fervour, are at the forefront of this change. The future of the world rests on your shoulders.”

Having listened to presentations from various delegation members, the vice-minister spoke about the problem of imperialism and warmongering carried out by the United States and Israel. He also noted the growing concern for Latin American countries, with the Venezuelan and Cuban people in particular experiencing direct military aggression and threats coming from the United States. Jin Xin noted that Cuba finds itself in a dangerous geographical position, being so close to the United States, and so far away from China. Regardless, China is committed to helping the Cuban comrades with all available means. He also celebrated the close solidarity, cooperation and growing ideological dialogue and ties between the “five golden flowers of socialism”, that is China, Vietnam, Laos, Cuba, and the DPRK.

Jin also discussed the state of Marxism in the West, noting that there are some disagreements and splits, in terms of how Marxism is understood and applied. He criticised the dogmatic approach chosen by some parties, which disregard national conditions, and automatically assume that certain aspects, such as the existence and development of the private sector, are a “betrayal” of Marxism.

The parties and organisatons participating in the delegation were:

Communist Party of Britain/Young Communist League
Communist Party of Belarus/League of Communist Youth
Communist Party of Canada
Progressive Party of the Working People of Cyprus (AKEL)/United Democratic Youth Organisation (EDON)
Communist Party of Bohemia and Moravia
Communist Party (Denmark)
Communist Party of Finland/Communist Youth
German Communist Party/Socialist German Workers Youth (SDAJ)
Hungarian Workers’ Party
Communist Refoundation Party of Italy
Italian Communist Party
Communist Party (Italy)/Federation of Communist Youth
Communist Party of Luxembourg
Levica (Left), Slovenia
Communist Party of Norway
Portuguese Communist Party/Portuguese Communist Youth
Romanian Socialist Party
Communist Party of Spain
Communist Party (Switzerland)
New Communist Party of Britain
Communist Party USA

The article below was originally published on the IDCPC website. It is followed by a report kindly provided to us by Comrade Paulius Eidukas from Norway.

Jin Xin Meets with a Delegation of Young Cadres from Communist Parties in Europe and the US

Beijing, May 7 (IDCPC) — Jin Xin, Vice-minister of the International Department of the CPC Central Committee, met here today with a delegation of young cadres from communist parties in Europe and the US.

Jin elaborated on the scientific connotations and global significance of Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era, and briefed the guests on the CPC’s efforts to strengthen self-building since the beginning of the new era, particularly the educational campaign on establishing and practicing a correct view on governance performance. He stated that the CPC stands ready to enhance youth exchanges with socialist forces worldwide, including communist parties in Europe and the US, deepen mutual learning on party governance and state administration, and jointly explore practical paths for adapting Marxism to local contexts and the times.

The delegation members noted that the successful practice of socialism with Chinese characteristics in the new era has greatly inspired progressive forces across the world. As young Marxists, they expressed anticipation of learning from the CPC’s successful experience in strengthening self-building, conducting youth work, and improving social governance efficiency through this visit, so as to contribute to strengthening their own parties and advancing the world socialist movement.

Report by Paulius Eidukas

“The far-right parties in the capitalist West can only offer unsustainable, short-term solutions to the problems facing their societies. Socialists, on the other hand, have a long-term plan and vision that is proven to work. This is our advantage.

“Socialism has already transcended the low ebb of the collapse of the Soviet Union. The world is in the process of change and the global winds are blowing in the direction away from capitalism. This is the moment that communist parties in the West should consider carefully, to find out how they can seize the opportunity.

“You, the generation of younger communists, with your admirable courage and fervour, are at the forefront of this change. The future of the world rests on your shoulders.”

These are some of the words said by Jin Xin, Vice Minister and Director-General of the General Office of the International Department of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China. We had the pleasure of meeting him on our second day in Beijing, and that meeting was certainly one of the highlights of the day.

Comrade Jin Xin listened carefully as several communists from our group presented on the situation in their respective countries. We heard analysis from Maise Riley, from the Communist Party of Britain and the YCL; from Iryna Maliuk, from the Communist Party of Belarus and the LCY; and from Nichita Iris Liga, from the Romanian Socialist Party.

Thanking the comrades for their analysis and explanation of the work and strategy of communists in their countries, Jin Xin gave a thoughtful response, discussing the possibilities and responsibilities of young Communists, who are organizing under the conditions of Western capitalism and imperialism.

He talked about the problem of imperialism and warmongering carried out by the United States and Israel. He also noted the growing concern for Latin American countries, with the Venezuelan and Cuban people in particular experiencing direct military aggression and threats coming from the United States. Jin Xin noted that Cuba finds itself in a dangerous geographical position, being so close to the United States, and so far away from China. Regardless, China is committed to helping the Cuban comrades with all available means. He also celebrated the close solidarity, cooperation and growing ideological dialogue and ties between the “five golden flowers of socialism”, that is China, Vietnam, Laos, Cuba, and the DPRK.

Jin Xin also discussed the state of Marxism in the West, noting that there are some disagreements and splits, in terms of how Marxism is understood and applied. He criticised the dogmatic approach chosen by some parties, which disregard national conditions, and automatically assume that certain aspects, such as the existence and development of the private sector, are a “betrayal” of Marxism. China is also being mischaracterised by the right-wing in the US, where many congressmen still treat China as a poor and underdeveloped country. Most of these congressmen, he noted, have not actually visited China to see the modernisation and development that would disprove their misconceptions.

Jin Xin noted that China has made great strides not only in modernisation and development, but also in terms of creating a prosperous and safe society. He noted that China is one of the safest places in the world, where people can walk alone at night without any fear, or where they can leave their belongings unattended. This is not the case in most other countries.

The comrade also noted that China has grown in its “soft power”, with global opinions shifting in favour of China. From social media trends, such as “Becoming Chinese”, to actual Chinese diaspora gradually returning back to their home country, when they realise that countries, such as the US, are not as they imagined. This is a reversal of the tendencies seen a couple of decades ago, where Chinese people would look up to the West as an example to follow.

Jin Xin emphasised that China does not subscribe to a vision of the world ruled by hegemonic countries and blocs, nor the idea of “superior” civilisations. Rather, China would see a world led by many civilisations in tandem. The goal is a harmonious world, which China strives for in its diplomatic efforts. It seeks to build friends, rather than create enemies. In developing China, the CPC does not not seek to compete with or replace any other countries, their industries, or their politics, but rather to lift the whole world up together.

Addressing the young Communists in particular, Jin Xin gave several points of guidance:

1. Be the guardians of ideas and convictions. You chose to join the communist movement in the finest years of your lives. While older generations often have fears and reservations, the youth is what really breathes life and growth into the movement.

2. Be strivers who make a difference. Socialism represents the future of humanity. It brings courage and hope. Young people should work hard to determine the best way forward in their respective countries, and to find out how to attract support to the communist cause.

3. Be the promoters of solidarity and cooperation. Internationalism is at the heart of socialism, and human progress comes through cultural exchange. We need our own media and outlets to showcase our movements and to learn from each other via online platforms. The IDCPC will be active in the development of these.

4. Be the defenders of fairness and justice. Oppose power politics, hegemony and bullying. Be a progressive voice in the international arena.

Jin Xin ended the discussion remarking on the rise in the acceptance and support of communist parties and ideas around the world, with the youth in particular showing high affinity for socialism, more so than in the decades earlier. This, Jin Xin noted, is the single spark that can start a prairie fire.

This whole discussion, to us, communists from the Western countries, was extremely emotional, uplifting and inspiring. We thank the International Department of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China for organising and supporting this international exchange.

Jean-Luc Mélenchon says France must get along with China

In the following video clip, which was originally posted by Global Times, and which we embed below, Jean-Luc Mélenchon, the leader of La France Insoumise, France’s main left wing party, insists that his country must get along well with China. He firmly upholds the one China principle regarding Taiwan and says that the nineteenth century is over, “when we turned up with our English friends and destroyed the Summer Palace… and forced the Chinese to buy opium. This period of colonialism is behind us.”

Mélenchon, who has announced his fourth bid for the French presidency, was being interviewed by the French news channel La Chaîne Info (LCI).

Mélenchon’s book, ‘Now, the People! Revolution in the Twenty-First Century’, has just been published in paperback by Verso.

Hybrid event: China and the Global Green Revolution (Saturday 16 May)

📆 Saturday 16 May 2026, 4:30pm US Eastern, 1:30pm US Pacific, 9:30pm Britain

Friends of Socialist China US committee is organising a hybrid event on the theme of China and the Global Green Revolution, to take place on Saturday, 16 May, at 4:30pm (US Eastern), 1:30pm (US Pacific), 9:30pm (Britain).

Speakers

• Carlos Martinez, co-editor, Friends of Socialist China
• KJ Noh, journalist, peace activist
• Kyle Ferrana, author, Why The World Needs China
• Sara Flounders, International Action Center
• Dee Knight, author, Befriending China
• Janey Mayes, International Action Center
• Lyn Neeley, International Action Center

Join us on Saturday and be part of the discussion!

Chinese Ambassador to UK condemns political farce of arresting and convicting Chinese citizens and warns of firm countermeasures

On May 7, two Chinese citizens, Chung Biu Yuen, 65, a former Hong Kong police officer now employed at the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office (HKETO) in London, and Chi Leung Wai, 40, an ex-UK Border Force officer and special constable at City of London Police, were both convicted under the draconian National Security Act 2023 on charges of “assisting a foreign intelligence service by conducting unauthorised information‑gathering and unlawful surveillance in the UK to benefit China”, following a trial at the Old Bailey in London. They have been remanded in custody and are due to be sentenced at a date yet to be confirmed.

The next day, Chinese Ambassador to the UK Zheng Zeguang requested a meeting with a Foreign Commonwealth and Development (FCDO) official, during which he made further representations with the UK side on the so-called verdict by a UK court on two Chinese, refuted the unfounded accusations of the UK side and urged the UK side to correct its mistake, stop the anti-China political manipulation, stop wantonly arresting and convicting Chinese citizens in the UK, and stop emboldening anti-China elements.

Ambassador Zheng pointed out that the UK side used trumped-up crimes to arrest and indict Chinese citizens in the UK. The so-called conviction was the outcome of abusing the law and manipulating the judicial process by the UK side. It is nothing but a political farce.

The UK side, he continued, harbours wanted criminals and wantonly arrested and convicted Chinese citizens in the UK. This act disrespects the rule of law and seriously violated basic norms of international relations. It has gravely undermined China-UK relations. This is totally intolerable to the Chinese side.

The Ambassador urged the UK side to correct its mistake, stop the anti-China political manipulation, stop wantonly arresting and convicting Chinese citizens in the UK, and stop backing and emboldening those anti-China elements. The UK side must know that any acts aimed at jeopardising China’s interests will be met with firm countermeasures.

The previous day, a spokesperson for the embassy stated: “The Chinese side has made clear its principled position on the relevant case many times. The facts of this case clearly show that this is nothing but a political move of abusing the law and manipulating the judicial process by the UK side. Its sole purpose is to embolden those anti-China elements who are hiding in the UK and bent on destablising Hong Kong, and to smear the Chinese government and the Hong Kong SAR [Special Administrative Region] government.”

Macron’s China-bashing in Africa: a case of projection

At the Africa Forward Summit in Nairobi on 12 May, French President Emmanuel Macron accused China of operating with a “predatory logic” across Africa. Carlos Martinez’s article below subjects that claim to the scrutiny it deserves – and finds that the phrase describes France’s own relationship with the continent rather more accurately than China’s.

The article sets out what China’s engagement with Africa actually looks like: a record $348 billion in bilateral trade in 2025; thousands of kilometres of railways, roads and power infrastructure; sixty years of medical teams; more university scholarships for African students than all leading Western governments combined; and, most recently, unconditional zero-tariff access to the Chinese market for all 53 African countries with diplomatic ties to Beijing – the structural trade arrangement that Africa has sought from the West for decades and never received.

France’s record, by contrast, involves the CFA franc (a colonial-era monetary arrangement that continues to route African foreign exchange reserves through the French Treasury), at least sixteen military interventions between 1960 and 1991, coups, extractive multinationals, and the systematic underdevelopment of economies it claims to be partnering.

Macron’s real purpose, Carlos argues, is not to help Africa but to suppress the South-South cooperation that is gradually dismantling the neocolonial order France built.

The summit’s true character was made plain by what happened outside the venue. As Macron received a red carpet welcome from President Ruto, Kenyan security forces arrested international delegates attending the parallel Pan-African Summit Against Imperialism – a counter-summit of revolutionary and anti-imperialist movements from across the continent and beyond. A statement by the Black Alliance for Peace observes that this outrageous action “further demonstrates the growing panic and hypocrisy within imperialist and comprador circles”. Friends of Socialist China expresses its unflinching solidarity with those that have been arrested.

Speaking at the Africa Forward Summit in Nairobi on Tuesday 12 May, French President Emmanuel Macron accused China of operating with a “predatory logic” across Africa and of “creating dependencies” by insisting that processing of critical minerals and rare earths takes place on Chinese soil. He presented Europe, by contrast, as a partner offering “equal footing” and “co-investment”.

It takes a particular kind of audacity to make these remarks on a continent that France has systematically plundered for the best part of two centuries.

Trump goes to Beijing as Washington faces a changed world

The immediate agenda for the summit between presidents Donald Trump and Xi Jinping on 14-15 May is crowded enough – the Iran war and the Strait of Hormuz energy shock, tariffs and rare earths, Taiwan arms sales, AI and semiconductors. But Gary Wilson’s analysis in Struggle La Lucha cuts through the media headlines to the deeper question: what has actually changed in the world that makes this summit so important?

The answer is not to be found in the language of “geopolitical rivalry” that dominates mainstream coverage. It lies in something more fundamental: a historic shift in the centre of gravity of industrial production, as a result of which US imperialism no longer holds an uncontested monopoly over the factories, supply chains and technologies that shape the world economy. That a socialist country, outside the framework of the US-led imperialist system, is shifting to the centre of the global economy is causing panic in the hallways of power in Washington. “That is what underlies every major issue surrounding the summit — trade, chips, Taiwan, oil, Iran and artificial intelligence — whether the participants acknowledge it or not.”

Gary notes that Trump will also be keen to secure Xi Jinping’s help digging him out of a quagmire in Iran, by putting pressure on Iran to open the Strait of Hormuz. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has explicitly called on China to “step up with some diplomacy and get the Iranians to open the strait”. However, China is unlikely to shift its consistent position, calling for a lasting peace based on the recognition of Iran’s sovereign rights (including to nuclear energy development) and an end to the US and Israel’s illegal assault. It’s significant that, just a week prior to Trump’s arrival, Iranian FM Abbas Araghchi was in Beijing for discussions with Wang Yi, who reiterated that “China supports Iran in safeguarding its national sovereignty and security and appreciates Iran’s willingness to seek a political solution through diplomatic channels”.

Washington wants China’s help cleaning up crises U.S. imperialism created, especially the war on Iran and the oil shock spreading from Hormuz. At the same time, it wants to block China’s industrial rise and keep control over technology, oil routes and world markets. But the old setup has already been broken. The centre of world production has shifted. So has the weight of the world working class.

President Donald Trump arrived in Beijing on May 13 ahead of two days of talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping — the first visit by a sitting U.S. president to China since Trump’s last trip in 2017.

He will bring with him a delegation from the biggest U.S. banks, tech firms, manufacturers and financial monopolies: Nvidia’s Jensen Huang, Tesla’s Elon Musk, Apple’s Tim Cook, BlackRock’s Larry Fink, Blackstone’s Stephen Schwarzman, Goldman Sachs CEO David Solomon, Boeing CEO Kelly Ortberg, Citigroup CEO Jane Fraser, Mastercard CEO Michael Miebach, Micron CEO Sanjay Mehrotra, Qualcomm CEO Cristiano Amon, Visa CEO Ryan McInerney, Meta executive Dina Powell McCormick, and others.

Trade, technology controls, Taiwan and the U.S. war on Iran are the immediate issues around the Beijing meeting. Artificial intelligence may also be discussed. But understanding what is really at stake requires stepping back from the daily headlines.

China is not what the headlines say

The U.S. corporate media covers the Trump-Xi summit as a clash between rival powers. That is the language of “geopolitics” — a way of describing world events that hides classes, hides imperialism and hides the struggle over who controls production, technology and the wealth created by workers.

China is not a mirror image of the United States. By nominal GDP — measured at market exchange rates — China’s economy is roughly two-thirds the size of the United States’. In purchasing power terms, which adjusts for price levels and better reflects real productive output, China’s economy is larger. Still, China is not a rich imperialist country like the United States. Its enormous economy is spread across more than 1.4 billion people, including a vast rural population. Hundreds of millions have been lifted out of extreme poverty, but China still carries the burdens of a formerly oppressed country that industrialized late and unevenly.

Iranian Foreign Minister visits Beijing

Iranian Foreign Minister Seyyed Abbas Araghchi visited China on May 6 for talks with his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi.

Araghchi briefed Wang on the latest developments in the Iran-US negotiations and Iran’s next steps, stating that facts have proven that political crises cannot be resolved through military means. Iran will resolutely safeguard its national sovereignty and national dignity while continuously building consensus through peaceful negotiations to seek a comprehensive and permanent solution. Currently, the issue of opening the Strait of Hormuz could be promptly addressed. Iran highly appreciates and agrees with the four propositions put forward by President Xi Jinping [during his recent meeting with the Crown Prince of the United Arab Emirates {UAE}] on safeguarding and promoting peace and stability in the region. Iran commends China for always standing on the right side of history and making unremitting efforts with a constructive attitude to prevent the situation from deteriorating and spilling over. Iran trusts China and looks forward to China continuing to play an active role in promoting peace and ending the conflict and supports the establishment of a new post-war regional framework that can coordinate development and security.

The Iranian Foreign Minister added that his country is willing to take the 55th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries this year as an opportunity to strengthen exchanges at all levels, tap into cooperation potential, provide firm mutual support, and deepen all-round cooperation. Iran is also willing to strengthen communication and coordination with China in multilateral affairs and continuously deepen the Iran-China comprehensive strategic partnership.

Wang Yi reiterated China’s principled position on the situation in Iran, emphasising that China has been actively promoting peace and facilitating talks since the outbreak of hostilities. President Xi Jinping solemnly put forward four propositions on safeguarding and promoting peace and stability in the Middle East, which has received a positive response from the international community. The current regional situation is at a critical juncture between war and peace. China believes that a comprehensive ceasefire is of utmost urgency, that resuming hostilities is even less acceptable, and that adhering to negotiations is particularly important. China supports Iran in safeguarding its national sovereignty and security and appreciates Iran’s willingness to seek a political solution through diplomatic channels. Regarding the Strait of Hormuz, the international community shares a common concern about restoring normal and safe passage through the strait, and China hopes that the parties involved will promptly respond to the strong call from the international community. [In this regard it should be noted above that Araghchi said that this issue could be promptly addressed, whereas the same day, US President Donald Trump boasted that, “the blockade will remain in full force and effect.” Iran has consistently stressed that the Strait remains open to all but the US aggressors and their allies.]

Wu Yize makes snooker history for China

Wu Yize became the second Chinese player to win the World Snooker Championship following Zhao Xintong’s triumph last year, defeating England’s Shaun Murphy 18-17 at Sheffield’s Crucible Theatre on May 4.

At 22 years of age, Wu also became the second-youngest Crucible winner after Stephen Hendry, who was 21 when he won the title in 1990.

Murphy and Wu embraced each other at the end of the hard-fought match and Murphy said:

“I’d like to be the first to congratulate Wu Yize and his family, and everyone around him for being a wonderful world champion. I hate being right – I said sometime earlier in the season when we had a great game out in China somewhere, I won that one, but I came out afterwards and said that he would be world champion one day. It’s just a real shame that it was today, but I couldn’t have given it anymore, I couldn’t have tried harder.”

With his parents by his side, Wu said: “My parents are the true champion. Since I made the decision to drop out of school, my dad has been by my side. My mum has also been going through a lot over the years. They are the source of my strength. I love them so much. I am so happy. I played for myself, my family, and China. I think other Chinese players can win this championship – the best is yet to come.”

The Telegraph appeared to forget its normal anti-China venom and general contempt for working class people and enthused:

“Wu is a prodigious talent who took the Crucible by storm, sealing the championship with the coolest of left-handed pots.

“Lanzhou-born Wu moved to Sheffield with his father when he was 16 to pursue his snooker dream in what must surely rank as one of the game’s most remarkable rags-to-riches tales. The duo shared a window-less flat and even a bed in Sheffield but, as Wu pumped his fist after conquering 43-year-old Murphy in this epic, all of that hardship was worth it.

“In the Steel City [as Sheffield is still known having been historically a centre of the industry], Wu’s nerves matched. He has developed into a cult figure with the Crucible faithful and his Wu Fan Clan were there until the very end, chanting his surname in the same vein as fans of Joe Root or Bruce Springsteen after a final for the ages.”

Asked about those popular “Wu” chants, the newly minted champion added: “At the beginning I had a misunderstanding. I thought people were booing me. Then the staff told me they were cheering me on, so I can’t thank you all enough.”

The Metro reported that Wu had earlier expressed his thanks to Ronnie O’Sullivan:

“‘We met a few times during the practice,’ Wu said of O’Sullivan. ‘We messaged each other occasionally to talk about matches. I really appreciate his support.’

Speaking in November, O’Sullivan said: ‘I was practicing quite a bit with Wu Yize in Hong Kong before the tournament [in Nanjing, China] that he won. I was just telling him certain areas of his game that I think he needs to improve on if he wants to be a winner.”

The seven-times world champion winner is a great friend of China.

The left-wing website Canary acclaimed Wu’s victory, writing:

“Wu Yize did not just win a world title; he arrived as a force the sport will have to reckon with for the next decade…

“Yize’s victory will resonate far beyond Sheffield. It will accelerate investment, inspire juniors, and reshape the competitive landscape. Crucially, he does not look like a one‑off. His temperament, scoring power and ability to absorb pressure are traits that translate to long‑term success…

“Wu Yize did not sneak through the back door, he walked through the front, past a former world champion who refused to go away and closed the match with the best break of his life. A new name is on the trophy, and my guess is it will not be the last time you see it there.”

China marks Youth Day

On May 3, Chinese President Xi Jinping sent a reply note to representatives of youth honour recipients, encouraging young Chinese to integrate their personal aspirations into the bigger picture of national development. Xi’s message came on the eve of China’s Youth Day on May 4, which commemorates the 1919 May Fourth Movement, which is widely seen as a turning point in the country’s modern history.

Giving various examples, an article carried by the Xinhua News Agency notes that around this time, Xi usually extends greetings to young people, underscoring the close link between youth empowerment and national progress.

In his message this year to representatives of recipients of the China Youth May Fourth Medal and New Era Youth Pioneer, Xi urged young Chinese to stay rooted in their roles, strive for new achievements and channel their youthful dynamism into advancing the nation’s new journey of development.

The article explains that: “About a decade ago, Xi guided the formulation of a national youth development plan that identified volunteer service as a priority. Through letters and in-person exchanges, he has repeatedly encouraged young volunteers to ‘serve where the country and the people need them most.’

“Xi’s own early experience has shaped his outlook. In his youth, he left Beijing to work in a rural village on the Loess Plateau, where he lived and laboured alongside farmers. Known for his diligence, he earned the trust of villagers and was elected local Party chief, where he led efforts to boost production and reduce poverty.

“Xi’s aspiration at that time was to ensure that all fellow villagers could have enough to eat. It was there that he forged the commitment to serving the country and the people.”

Also on May 3, it was announced that the Communist Youth League of China (CYLC) had about 78.34 million members by the end of 2025, with about 9.14 million new members joining last year.

On April 30, 2019, Xi Jinping delivered an important speech marking the centenary of the May 4 Movement. Xinhua’s report of that event explains that:

“The May Fourth Movement started with mass student protests on May 4, 1919, against the government’s response to the Treaty of Versailles that imposed unfair treaties on China and undermined the country’s sovereignty after World War I. It then triggered a national campaign to overthrow the old society and promote new ideas, including science, democracy and Marxism… Xi said the May Fourth Movement was a great patriotic and revolutionary campaign pioneered by advanced young intellectuals and joined by the people from all walks of life to resolutely fight imperialism and feudalism.”

“As long as the banner of patriotism is being held high, the Chinese people can unleash great powers in the endeavours to transform China and the world,” Xi said. The essence of patriotism is having unified love for the country, the Party and socialism, he added, urging young Chinese to follow the instructions and guidance of the Party, and remain dedicated to the country and the people. Young people are also urged to establish belief in Marxism, faith in socialism with Chinese characteristics, as well as confidence in the Chinese Dream of national rejuvenation.

Xi said Chinese youth of the new era should bear their responsibilities of the times and carry on the spirit of arduous struggle. He also encouraged young people to not only care about their family and country but also have concerns for humanity.

China implements zero-tariff treatment for 53 African countries

On 1 May this year, with the Trump administration continuing to wield tariffs as a weapon of economic coercion against much of the world, China did something historic: it granted zero-tariff access to its market of 1.4 billion people for all 53 African countries with which it maintains diplomatic relations (which is all African countries with the exception of Eswatini), with no conditions, political strings, or demand for reciprocal action.

This is not a sudden gesture but the culmination of a relationship with deep roots. For 35 consecutive years, China’s Foreign Minister has made Africa the first destination of their overseas travel at the start of each year. China championed the African Union’s entry into the G20. African countries were pivotal in restoring China’s lawful seat at the United Nations more than 50 years ago. China-Africa trade reached a record $348 billion in 2025. Chinese agricultural teams are helping Gambia achieve historic rice yields. Chinese engineers built West Africa’s first light rail, in Lagos. A new Africa CDC headquarters, built by China, now anchors the continent’s
public health infrastructure.

Against this backdrop, Western accusations of Chinese “neo-colonialism” in Africa ring hollow – and African leaders themselves have said so. Namibia’s president,
confronted by a German politician fretting about Chinese workers in his country, replied simply: “We will handle our own country.”

The Global Times editorial below sets out the significance of the new zero-tariff policy and what it represents for the China-Africa relationship and for the future of equitable global trade.

China will implement zero-tariff treatment for 53 African countries that have diplomatic relations with it, starting May 1. This major policy initiative positions China as the first major economy in the world to grant unilateral and comprehensive zero-tariff treatment to all African countries that have diplomatic relations with China, as well as to all least developed countries that maintain diplomatic relations with China. This “unilateral and full-coverage” arrangement is not just a “subtraction” in tariffs, but also an “addition” for development, a “multiplication” for people’s livelihoods, and a “division” of arbitrary tariff impositions. From this, people can see China’s policy philosophy of sincerity, real results, amity, and good faith toward Africa, as well as its correct view of justice and interests.

Many years ago, at multilateral forums such as the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), China committed to gradually expanding tariff preferences for African countries to help them integrate into the global trading system. Starting in 2005 with zero-tariff treatment for certain products from the least developed countries in Africa, and granting zero-tariff treatment on 100 percent of tariff lines for least developed African countries by the end of 2024, as well as further extending the preference to all African countries with diplomatic relations with China by 2026, China has consistently fulfilled every commitment to Africa with steady and practical actions. Not once has it wavered due to global economic fluctuations. This commitment to “honoring its words with concrete actions” has not only solidified the foundation of mutual trust between China and Africa but also demonstrated the credibility of China as a responsible major country, setting an example for the international community in honoring promises and upholding integrity.

Pakistan president pays tribute to Chairman Mao on Hunan visit

Pakistan president Asif Ali Zardari visited China’s Hunan and Hainan provinces from April 25-May 1.

In the year in which the two countries are celebrating the 75^th anniversary of their diplomatic relations, a key focus of the visit was on a wide range of economic sectors along with other areas of practical cooperation. It was also notable that the Pakistan head of state chose to visit the home province of Chairman Mao, paying warm tribute to the leader of the Chinese revolution and founder of New China and referencing his own family’s special relationship with China over three generations.

An April 26 post on the official social media page of The President of Pakistan, datelined from Changsha, Hunan’s provincial capital, noted:

“President Asif Ali Zardari, currently visiting Changsha in Hunan province of China, held a meeting with Mr Shen Xiaoming, Party Secretary of Hunan Province, and attended a banquet hosted in his honour by Governor of Hunan Province, Mr Mao Weiming…

“During the meeting, the President invited Mr Shen Xiaoming to visit Pakistan in connection with the 75th anniversary celebrations of diplomatic relations between the two countries. He underscored that Pakistan-China ties remain a cornerstone of Pakistan’s foreign policy and continue to enjoy broad-based support. He also referred to his long-standing personal connection with China, recalling that his family, including his late father-in-law Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto and his late wife Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto, had always attached special importance to relations with China. He said this tradition is now being carried forward by the next generation, including his son, former foreign minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari and [daughter] First Lady Bibi Aseefa Bhutto Zardari…

“In his remarks, President Zardari said that Hunan holds a special place as the birthplace of Chairman Mao Zedong, whose legacy continues to resonate. He observed that the idea that power rests with the people remains deeply admired by the Pakistanis. Reflecting on his personal connection with China, he noted that he first visited the country in 1989 and that his affinity for China has grown stronger over time…

“Speaking at the banquet, the Chinese Ambassador to Pakistan Jiang Zaidong remarked that the President’s decision to visit Hunan reflects his special regard for Chairman Mao. He noted that Pakistan and China are expanding collaboration in agriculture, industry and minerals, and expressed hope that the visit would further strengthen bilateral cooperation, bring the two peoples closer and add significance to the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations.”

On April 28, the president’s social media updated from Chairman Mao’s birthplace, Shaoshan:

Communist parties of Spain and China meet

Liu Haixing, Minister of the International Department of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee (IDCPC), met with a delegation led by Manu Pineda, Secretary of International Relations of the Communist Party of Spain (PCE), on April 23.

Liu said, President Xi Jinping and visiting Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez recently held a successful meeting, charting the course for the future development of China-Spain relations. The PCE plays an important role in Spain’s current centre-left coalition government and has actively contributed to the development of China-Spain relations. The CPC is ready to work with the PCE to implement the important consensus reached by the two countries’ leaders, strengthen exchanges and dialogue, deepen mutual learning of experience in party building and state governance, promote cooperation in economy, trade and local areas, and promote greater development of China-Spain comprehensive strategic partnership.

The following article was originally published on the IDCPC website.

Shenzhen, April 23rd—Liu Haixing, Minister of the International Department of the CPC Central Committee (IDCPC), met here today with a delegation led by Manu Pineda, Secretary of International Relations of the Communist Party of Spain (PCE).

Liu said, President Xi Jinping and visiting Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez recently held a successful meeting, charting the course for the future development of China-Spain relations. The PCE plays an important role in the center-left coalition government and has actively contributed to the development of China-Spain relations. Both the CPC and the PCE are century-old Parties. The CPC is ready to work with the PCE to implement the important consensus reached by the two countries’ leaders, strengthen exchanges and dialogue, deepen mutual learning of experience in party building and state governance, promote cooperation in economy, trade and local areas, and promote greater development of China-Spain comprehensive strategic partnership.

Pineda said, the PCE and the CPC share a deep friendship. Relations between the two Parties have been continuously strengthened in recent years. The PCE appreciates the CPC’s positive role in leading China to safeguard world peace and stability, and supports the Belt and Road Initiative and other major international initiatives proposed by General Secretary Xi Jinping. The PCE is willing to continue to conduct in-depth research on and actively disseminate the CPC’s innovative theories and China’s foreign policies in various ways, so as to help the world better understand China and the CPC.

Jin Xin, Vice-minister of the IDCPC, was present.

CPC and Frelimo reaffirm friendship

Coinciding with Mozambican President Daniel Chapo’s state visit to China, his first since assuming office, on April 22, Liu Haixing, Minister of the International Department of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee (IDCPC), met in Beijing with Chakil Aboobacar, Secretary-General of the Mozambique Liberation Front (Frelimo).

Liu said that the CPC is ready to work with Frelimo, guided by the important consensus reached by the top leaders of the two Parties and countries, to implement the memorandum of understanding on exchanges and cooperation between the two Parties, strengthen strategic communication and high-level exchanges, deepen exchanges of experience in state governance and administration and cooperation in cadre training, promote pragmatic cooperation in various fields through inter-party channels, and further advance the development of China-Mozambique and China-Africa relations.

Frelimo led the national liberation struggle against Portuguese colonial rule and has led the country since independence in June 1975. The deep ties between the CPC and Frelimo date to the earliest days of the liberation struggle. The founding leader of Frelimo Eduardo Mondlane visited China in 1963.

The following article was originally published on the IDCPC website.

Beijing, April 22nd—Liu Haixing, Minister of the International Department of the CPC Central Committee (IDCPC), met here today with Chakil Aboobacar, Secretary-General of the Mozambique Liberation Front (Frelimo).

Liu said, President Xi Jinping met with President Daniel Chapo in a cordial and friendly atmosphere yesterday, and the two sides agreed to elevate bilateral relations to a China-Mozambique community with a shared future in the new era. The CPC is ready to work with Frelimo, guided by the important consensus reached by the top leaders of the two Parties and countries, to implement the memorandum of understanding on exchanges and cooperation between the two Parties, strengthen strategic communication and high-level exchanges, deepen exchanges of experience in state governance and administration and cooperation in cadre training, promote pragmatic cooperation in various fields through inter-party channels, and further advance the development of China-Mozambique and China-Africa relations. This year marks the start of China’s 15th Five-Year Plan, and China is willing to strengthen the alignment of development strategies with Mozambique, foster new growth drivers for cooperation, and support Mozambique’s national development. Liu also briefed on China’s efforts in advancing full and rigorous Party self-governance, as well as the CPC’s education campaign to help officials gain a correct understanding of what it means to perform well and act accordingly.

Aboobacar said, China has always been Mozambique’s true friend standing together through weal and woe and a reliable development partner. He expressed gratitude for China’s long-term selfless support for Mozambique’s economic and social development. Mozambique firmly adheres to the one-China principle and will continue to stand firmly with China on issues concerning China’s core interests. Mozambique is ready to work with China to implement the important consensus of the two heads of state, deepen cooperation in economy, trade, resources and other areas, and pursue modernization hand in hand. Frelimo regards the CPC as its priority strategic partner. Seizing the opportunity of the signing of the memorandum between the two Parties, Frelimo is willing to work with the CPC to further conduct exchanges and mutual learning on experience in state governance and administration, and carry out in-depth cooperation in areas including party school development and cadre training, to enhance the governing capacity and level of Frelimo.

The Great Qin show in Xi’an: Experiencing Chinese history and its lessons for today

In the following article Bhabani Shankar Nayak reviews a spectacular show he attended in Xi’an during a recent visit to China. Bringing to life the forging of a united China by first emperor Qin Shi Huang but also presenting it from the perspectives of ordinary people, he explains that it “brings audiences together to reflect on the idea of national unification in China in a way that remains inclusive and respectful of both domestic and global perspectives” and that it “conveys to the world that patriotism and nationalism can be inclusive, and need not be grounded in supremacist ideas or practices that undermine others or create divisions in the process of nation-building.”

Bhabani is Professor of Business Management at London Metropolitan University and writes extensively on socialism and anti-imperialism.

On 15 December 2025, after a hectic day of academic exchanges and talks in the morning, followed by sightseeing in the afternoon, my body was exhausted and it was difficult to keep my eyes open. My mind, however, was immersed in the cultural geography of Xi’an and the history of Shaanxi – the birthplace of Chinese civilisation. Then came an eighty-minute epic fantasy performance produced by the Shaanxi Cultural Investment Group at the Great Qin Performance Theatre located in a magnificent building on the east side of the Epang Palace in Fengdong New Town, Xixian New Area in Xi’an. This surreal production, led by a blend of acrobatics, dance, drama, technology, and music, made me forget my physical fatigue and drew me completely into the original archaeological setting of the Qin Dynasty. A 500-ton, 37-metre track platform expanded to 95 meters, accompanied by vibrating seats, transporting the audience back to the battlefields, palaces, mountains, oceans, rivers, agricultural fields, love stories, music, dance and the social and economic lives of ordinary Chinese people in 221 BCE. It was a visual marvel of Chinese history, unfolding the story of the Qin Dynasty through its main character, Hei Fu, a soldier.

The performance began in a realistic workshop setting, where Chinese archaeologists were shown working at an excavation site, restoring the ruins and remains of the Qin Dynasty. As the performance progressed, the story of China’s unification unfolded, following the journey of a Qin Dynasty soldier, Hei Fu, as its central narrative thread. Through his experiences, the performance used the fate of an ordinary individual to depict the broader historical process of Qin’s unification of the six states – Han, Chu, Yan, Zhao, Wei, and Qi. The immersive performance by Chinese theatre artists brought the past vividly to life through technologically led moving track platforms, where the stage transformed seamlessly to suit six different scenes. With 360° panoramic visuals and dynamic stage design, it recreated the military, architectural, cultural, and social landscape of the Qin Dynasty.

Directors Zhou Liya and Han Zhen, through The Great Qin, not only give life to Heifu – a figure inspired by the Terracotta Warriors and Horses Museum of Qin Shi Huang – but also connect his sacrifices to the making of China as a nation. The performance further revives the character of Dajiang Yi, a dedicated craftsman emerging from the ruins of the Epang Palace. Similarly, it portrays Guan Zhixi, an official who offers a legal perspective on the Qin Dynasty. History often reveals that heroes and villains are merely two sides of the same coin. So, the assassins depicted in The Great Qin are not merely threats to Emperor Qin Shihuang; they also serve as powerful reminders of loyalty, betrayal, and commitment in Chinese history.

The Great Qin performance is not merely an immersive theatrical show; it is also a powerful reflection on Chinese history, highlighting how ordinary people and soldiers like Heifu sacrificed their lives in the making of what would eventually become modern China. The story concludes with Heifu’s death, while his beloved continues to wait for him, embodying a quiet yet enduring form of devotion. The performance serves as a poignant reminder of the often-unseen sacrifices made by women in the making of families and nations – while men rule and die in wars, women endure loss and carry forward the continuity of life. In this respect, China is no different from the rest of the world.

There is no doubt that The Great Qin is a political show which portrays Chinese nationalism without undermining any other culture, ethnicity or nation. It brings audiences together to reflect on the idea of national unification in China in a way that remains inclusive and respectful of both domestic and global perspectives. The performance also serves as a reminder to younger generations to uphold the unity and integrity of China, emphasising that these are the results of profound historical sacrifices. The Eurocentric monolithic lens depicts China in its narrow and mono-ethnic outlook underming the diversities in China. The Great Qin show restores Chinese diversity and rejects dominant North American and European narratives on China.

The Great Qin is not merely an entertaining show; it is also an integral part of contemporary Chinese popular culture. Through the lens of The Great Qin, China once again conveys to the world that patriotism and nationalism can be inclusive, and need not be grounded in supremacist ideas or practices that undermine others or create divisions in the process of nation-building.

China marks May Day with tangible gains for working people

On the eve of May Day, Chinese President Xi Jinping extended festive greetings and best wishes to the country’s working people. He called on workers across the country to work hard, deliver solid results, and play a leading role in driving high-quality economic and social development. Party committees and governments at all levels, he added, should safeguard workers’ lawful rights and interests, address their most pressing concerns, and encourage them to strive unremittingly for the country’s grand goals.

A feature article published by the Xinhua News Agency explored these themes in greater depth.

Noting that Xi Jinping has said that “model workers and exemplary individuals are the moral exemplars of the people and the pillars of the nation,” it added that in the week leading up to May Day, 3,024 individuals and organisations were honoured for their contributions to major national strategies, projects and priority industries. Recipients ranged from engineers, technicians, teachers and doctors, to delivery workers.

The article added: “Xi has built a reputation for hard work since his early years as a village official in a poor rural area of northwest China more than half a century ago. As the country’s top leader, he has called on the society as a whole to respect model workers and promote the spirit they embody and has backed the commitment with a range of policy and institutional measures.

“He has called for building a large, highly skilled industrial workforce with strong ideals, technical expertise, a capacity for innovation, and a sense of responsibility and dedication, while also emphasising workers’ welfare and protections.

“In recent years, China has continued to expand legal protections and social security coverage for workers, with growing attention to those in new forms of employment such as food delivery couriers and ride-hailing drivers, as well as older workers beyond the standard retirement age…

“Beyond policy measures, Xi has also conducted on-site inspections to ensure their needs are being met. In 2023, he went to a migrant worker housing complex in Shanghai, entering homes, inspecting shared facilities such as communal kitchens and laundries, and speaking with residents about their daily lives.